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Governor David Paterson has called on Congress to approve additional Federal funding to expand subsidized employment programs.

The additional funds would be used to put thousands of New Yorkers back to work in subsidized positions, according to a press release out of Albany. The funds come from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act known as ARRA. According to the governor this has been critical in supporting employment throughout the state.

"In New York, high unemployment is still a concern and it is critical to our State and national economic recovery that we do all we can to help people get into the workforce and maintain employment," said Governor Paterson in the statement.

This made $2.5 billion available nationally to help public assistance recipients and other low-income families meet basic living needs with a job that is supported by the subsidized employment programs.

These programs provide employers with wage subsidies as incentives to hire individuals who are unable to secure a job in the ailing economy. Some of the programs also provide job improvement skills through participation in education and job skills training programs.

"New Yorkers working in subsidized jobs are earning a paycheck and providing for their families while building skills and gaining the valuable experience that will allow them to advance in the workforce over time," said the governor.

Paterson thanked the president and congress for the funds the state has received but also called on Congress for more federal funding to "provide us with the resources to help New Yorkers get back to work."

The funds from both programs have supported $57 million in subsidized jobs across New York, employing as many as 5,000 people by the end of September.